Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be a complex process, and receiving a denial or suspension—despite believing you qualify—is unfortunately common. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a formal appeal process to review such decisions, giving applicants and beneficiaries a fair chance to contest outcomes.
Your Right to Appeal
All SSDI applicants and beneficiaries have the right to appeal SSA decisions at no additional cost. The appeal allows a new team to review your case, hear your side, and consider any new medical evidence that wasn’t reviewed previously.
Important: You have 60 calendar days from the date you receive the SSA’s decision letter to file your appeal. Missing this deadline means losing the chance to challenge the decision unless you can prove a valid reason for the delay.
What Decisions Can Be Appealed?
You can appeal almost any SSA decision related to your disability benefits, including:
- Rejection of your initial SSDI application
- Suspension of benefits following a Continuing Disability Review (CDR)
- Determination that you no longer meet medical eligibility requirements
- Reduction in benefit amounts or changes to payment collection methods
When SSA issues such decisions, they send a letter explaining the reasons and provide instructions and forms for appealing. Keep this letter safe—it contains important deadlines and steps.
The Four Levels of the SSDI Appeal Process
If your appeal is denied at one stage, you can proceed to the next:
- Reconsideration
A new team reviews your case from scratch, including any new medical evidence you provide. - Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If reconsideration fails, you can request an in-person or video hearing. You may bring witnesses and legal representation. - Appeals Council Review
This council reviews whether the ALJ correctly applied Social Security rules. - Federal Court Lawsuit
If all previous steps fail, you may file a lawsuit in federal court as a last resort.
You can submit updated medical documents at any stage. Although hiring a lawyer is optional, professional legal advice can be helpful during hearings or court procedures.
What If I Lose My Appeal?
If you exhaust all four levels without success, your case will be closed. However, you can reapply later, especially if your medical condition worsens or you have new evidence supporting your disability.
If you already receive SSDI benefits but get a notice of suspension, you can request to continue payments during the appeal. To prevent interruptions, submit this request within 10 days of receiving the suspension notice.
Key Tips to Remember
- Act promptly and respect deadlines.
- Keep your medical records current and complete.
- Report any changes in your condition or circumstances to SSA.
- Don’t lose hope after one denial—each appeal is reviewed fresh.
For more information or to start your appeal, visit the official Social Security website or contact the SSA directly.